Karen-Happuch: First female to produce an animation film in Ghana breaks barriers with ‘Abrefi Kɔtɔ’

Karen-Happuch, the first female to produce an animation film in Ghana, has made history with her ground-breaking work, “Abrefi Kɔtɔ.”

This resilient animator's film sold out three consecutive screenings at Silverbird Cinemas in Accra, marking a significant milestone for the Ghanaian film industry, particularly for women navigating the heavily male-dominated animation industry.

Inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Ghana, Abrefi Kɔtɔ tells a captivating story of empowerment and innovation. Set in the ancient Asante Kingdom, the film follows a courageous young woman who defies societal norms and challenges the status quo. This powerful narrative resonates with audiences of all ages, highlighting the importance of female representation and the pursuit of dreams.

Karen-Happuch, has been steadily carving her niche in the animation industry since 2017. Her ground-breaking project, “Abrefi Kɔtɔ”, has garnered international acclaim. Selected as one of the top African stories for the Anim’Ato Mada 2022 residency in Madagascar and recognized as a top animation project from Ghana at the MIFA pitch session during the 2023 Annecy International Animation Film Festival, “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” has proven to be a global sensation.

This remarkable achievement places Ghana on the world stage as a hub for innovative storytelling. As one of the top eight stories globally accredited by the Annecy Animation Film Festival, International Animation Film Market, and Kickstarter in 2023, Abrefi Kɔtɔ stands as the only selection from West Africa. The successful Kickstarter campaign, backed by supporters from around the world, further solidifies the project's impact.

Despite facing numerous obstacles, including limited resources and a lack of professional equipment, Karen-Happuch and her team at KHPH Studios persevered. Their unwavering dedication and passion for animation brought “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” to life. By shattering the glass ceiling to release an animation film and premiere it at the cinemas, Karen-Happuch has inspired countless young people to pursue their creative dreams.

The overwhelming response of Ghanaians to “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” is a testament to the growing demand for diverse and culturally relevant storytelling. As the film continues to gain international recognition, it has the potential to inspire and empower audiences worldwide. With dreams of producing a full series, “Abrefi Kɔtɔ” is poised to become a global phenomenon, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of Ghanaian filmmakers.